A Citrus Powerhouse
Australia’s refrigerated export market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by the high demand for perishable goods. From juicy fruits and vegetables to premium meat and seafood, Australian products are cherished worldwide. Among the key players in this thriving landscape is citrus, one of the largest fresh produce exports in Australia, making a significant contribution to the economy.
Citrus cultivation is a cornerstone of Australia's agricultural sector, covering approximately 13,000 hectares. Owing to favorable weather conditions, Australia’s fresh citrus production continues to grow. Every year, Australian orchards yield around 500,000 tons of citrus fruits, including Navel and Valencia oranges, mandarins, lemons, limes, and grapefruit.
Timing is Everything
The local citrus season peaks between June and October, following the grape season, which runs from January to May. During this period, the export volume for citrus is projected to reach around 100,000 metric tons. China has been the number one market for Australian citrus exports, while substantial volumes are also being transported to key destinations in Japan, Hong Kong, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and North America. South Korea has also emerged as another significant destination in recent years.
With production gains projected on the horizon, the citrus industry is looking bright. There is a strategic push to boost international demand, ensuring that Australia’s citrus crop reaches new markets.
Staying Cool in a Hot Market
Global supply chain disruptions can significantly impact Australian exports due to the country’s geographical distance. It typically takes a couple of weeks for goods making their way from Australia to reach international markets, necessitating efficient route optimization and capacity management.
When it comes to citrus exports, each market presents unique challenges and opportunities. Factors such as fruit size, crop yield, acidity, and overall quality can vary annually, making each season unique. This calls for reliable shipping solutions to keep up with diverse demands.
ZIM Australia has been pivotal in the development of the local refrigerated market, holding a significant market share of about 10-14% for citrus exports and the perishable market as a whole.
With citrus volumes expected to reach around 250,000 metric tons, ZIM Australia has taken measures to meet the peak season demand:
Young & Modern Fleet
With exporters requiring high-quality equipment, our ZIMonitor system enhances reliability for customers, who rely on its real-time tracking features and temperature control, a crucial factor for maintaining the high quality of citrus produce on long journeys.
With exporters requiring high-quality equipment, our ZIMonitor system enhances reliability for customers, who rely on its real-time tracking features …
Fighting Fruit Fly?
For countries requiring fruit fly-free exports, ZIM Australia’s Cold Treatment solutions are invaluable, especially for grapes and citrus, in meeting the highest requirements of any international market.
For countries requiring fruit fly-free exports, ZIM Australia’s Cold Treatment solutions are invaluable, especially for grapes and citrus, in meeting …
Market-Leading Transit Time
With a substantial portion of local fruit exports heading to global markets, ZIM offers the ZIM Australia Express (ZAX) service with an industry-leading transit time to Pusan.
With a substantial portion of local fruit exports heading to global markets, ZIM offers the ZIM Australia Express (ZAX) service with an industry-leadi…
High Demand, Higher Performance
“We talk to our customers,” says Veni Patakakis, ZIM Australia’s Sales Manager. As one of the few carriers in Australia offering export bookings within the country, maintaining a local presence enables regular interactions with customers to tailor solutions and ensure quick responses to equipment and space needs.
During the peak citrus season, plug utilization across the market often reaches 93-95%, indicating a high demand period. Despite this being the peak season for citrus fruits, other year-long commodities like meat and dairy continue to be exported, requiring shipping lines to provide extra equipment. ZIM Australia’s ongoing engagement with customers guarantees that equipment is available on time, and that schedules and connecting vessels are communicated clearly, delivering a successful season year after year.
As the Australian citrus season gets underway, growing conditions have been favorable across most regions, with warmer weather lasting longer than in recent years. Shippers, exporters, and growers can look forward to a thriving season and lasting partnership with ZIM Australia, ensuring their sensitive goods reach global markets in peak condition.
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